Bwala Calls Out Bauchi Governor, Demands Constructive Talks On Tax Bills

Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, has urged governors critical of the tax reform bills to engage with their state lawmakers to voice their concerns, rather than scapegoating or blackmailing the president.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

This follows accusations from Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, who claimed that President Tinubu was ignoring public concerns over the proposed tax bills. Mohammed warned that if passed, the bills could harm the financial stability of states and worsen the hardships faced by Nigerians.

In an interview with Channels Television on Wednesday, Bwala defended Tinubu’s position, emphasizing that the bills are within the jurisdiction of the national assembly. He disagreed with Governor Mohammed’s assertions, highlighting that the president’s actions show responsiveness to the needs of Nigerians.

Bwala pointed out that Tinubu has not bypassed democratic procedures in pushing the reforms. He stated, “The part I disagree with him (Bauchi governor) is that he suggested the president isn’t listening. Just because a group of governors can’t get their way doesn’t mean the president is not responding to the needs of Nigerians—after all, the governors are only 37, while Nigerians number over 200 million.”

He continued, “Instead of scapegoating or blackmailing the president, the governors should speak directly with their lawmakers. It is a democracy, and the bills are before the national assembly, which will deliberate and take the necessary actions for passage.”

Bwala added that if governors have concerns, they should engage with national assembly members from their states to articulate their positions, as the final decision will be made through voting. He also noted that many are trying to undermine the president through blackmail, reminding that Tinubu is not part of the legislative branch.